The sect is now demanding the release of Sajida al-Rishawi, an alleged suicide bomber, who is believed to be connected to the attack on a hotel in Jordan in 2005. She is currently imprisoned in Jordan.

Japanese government spokesman Yoshihide Suga responded to the video saying:

"This is an outrageous and unacceptable act. We strongly demand the prompt release of the remaining Mr. Kenji Goto, without harm."

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe also responded saying that Japan “will not give in to terrorism.”

Meanwhile Japanese authorities are attempting to verify the video to ascertain if Yukawa has indeed been beheaded.